UK and Spain Strike Historic Deal
In a historic move, Spain will control Gibraltar’s borders and immigration checkpoints, following a UK-EU deal. Correspondingly, Gibraltar will join the Schengen area, effectively dissolving border checks between Spain and Gibraltar.
Gibraltar and Spain’s History
Gibraltar, a British overseas territory, sits at the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula. The Spanish ended their Muslim occupation in 1462, until the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713.
Since then, the United Kingdom has ruled the territory. While Spain has claimed sovereignty, a 1969 constitutional order mandated that there would be no such transfer.
Today, Gibraltar is for the most part self-governing, except for matters pertaining to defense and foreign policy.
Since Brexit, Gibraltar’s status has caused friction. According to HM Government of Gibraltar, nearly 15,000 workers cross the border daily. This is because efficient movement has remained vital to both economies. Although Gibraltar has been a British Overseas Territory since 1713, Spain has long claimed sovereignty.
Even so, Gibraltarians strongly identify as British, with tensions flaring repeatedly over the years.
Under the new deal, Gibraltar residents can cross to Spain by presenting their residence cards without passport stamping. Meanwhile, Spanish citizens can also cross to Gibraltar, but only using their government ID card.
Details of Gibraltar Deal
Under the new deal, Spain will manage Schengen entry points at Gibraltar’s airport and port. Nevertheless, British officials will also be present. This joint system mirrors the Eurostar model used in the UK and France. Consequently, both sides claim control and cooperation.
Moreover, Spain now has authority over visa approvals, residence permits, and asylum applications for Gibraltar. The agreement also includes customs coordination with the EU, helping reduce smuggling and ensuring fair tax competition.
“With this agreement, the barrier will disappear,” said Spanish Foreign Affairs Minister José Manuel Albares.
Moving forward, authorities may deny entry to visiting Britons who are not residents. This applies if they have spent over 90 days in the Schengen Zone.
However, some UK politicians raised concerns. In particular, they fear the agreement gives too much ground to Spanish authorities.
Economic and Social Impact
Local businesses on both sides of the border have welcomed the deal. Naturally, they expect a major boost in trade and tourism. Given the deal, travelers will no longer face long queues. Overall, this change is especially important for daily commuters and seasonal visitors.
In addition, Gibraltar may soon welcome more flights from Schengen countries. In time, this could further open its economy.
Still, some Gibraltarians remain cautious. They worry this may lead to erosion of British ties in the long term.
What Comes Next?
Lawmakers in the UK, Spain, and the EU must now ratify the treaty, with the process possibly taking several months. Meanwhile, technical teams are drafting the legal text. Authorities aim to begin phased implementation before the end of 2025.
If all goes smoothly, Gibraltar will become a key model for post-Brexit cross-border governance.
A Delicate Balance
Spain gains control; Gibraltar keeps its British status—for now. Although sovereignty questions linger, the practical outcome may ease tensions.
Photo by Michal Mrozek on Unsplash
